Perpetual Observational Studies: New strategies to support efficient implementation of observational studies and randomized trials in the infectious diseases arena

TL;DR

This paper discusses the development of Perpetual Observational Studies (POS) within clinical research networks to enhance the efficiency and quality of infectious disease research, including observational and randomized trials.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of POS and evaluates their potential benefits and challenges in infectious disease research within the Ecraid network.

Findings

POS can improve study planning and quality

POS may increase research efficiency in infectious diseases

Initial implementation shows promising benefits

Abstract

The increasing threat of emerging infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance requires more efficient, high-quality research. Perpetual Observational Studies (POS) nested within a clinical research network can improve planning, quality and efficiency of interventional and observational studies, although real-life benefits and challenges need to be assessed. Ecraid (European Clinical Research Alliance on Infectious Diseases) has initiated POS and will monitor the impact for five specific infectious syndromes.